Gerontologic Environmental Modifications >> Injury Prevention



	U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission
		Upholstered Furniture Safety Alert
		Tap Water Scalds
		Aluminum Cookware Can Melt and Cause Severe Burns
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		Extension Cords Fact Sheet
		WARNING! Fire Hazard with Nightlights
		Carbon Monoxide Detectors Can Save Lives

	Bathing safety equipment
		Choosing the right bath seat
		Handheld showerheads
		Grab Bars
		Grab Bar Safety Meeting Notes
		Grab Bar Testing Data
		Bath Mats
		Resource list

Bathing Safety Equipment

	Showerhead Installation
	Recommended Handheld Showerhead

Handheld Showerheads

A "handheld" showerhead brings the water source closer when one showers while seated. Instead of water flowing out of a showerhead installed high on the bathtub wall, the water flows though a hose to the showerhead at a lower height. Handheld units also allow getting into the tub without one stepping directly into a stream of water, reducing chances of slipping.

Handheld showerhead mounting methods

Photo courtesy of Alsons Corporation

Held in the hand while showering and then hung on a stationary bracket when not in use. A bracket with a large opening (where the shower head is placed) is easier to use.

Inserted into the slot of a bathing chair (see photo below left, not all chairs have this feature).

Photo courtesy of Alsons Corporation

Mounted on a track with the user sitting below for a hands-free shower.

A track with an adjustable knob, illustrated above on the right, allows the user to:

adjust the height of the showerhead
change the angle of the spray


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Questions to ask before purchasing a handheld showerhead:

Is the handle textured and contoured for easy grasping, especially if you have limited hand strength?

Is there a large on/off push button on the side of the handle? This feature reduces the flow of water to a trickle and then on again at the same temperature. This is both a convenience and safety feature: when shampooing hair, it is easier and safer to stop and start the flow of water without having to lean forward to adjust the volume at the faucets.

Does the unit come with a long hose (80" - 84") so you can reach behind and wash your back areas, or do you need to buy one separately?

Does the handheld shower come with a wall-mounted bracket or do you need to buy one separately?

Have you purchased Teflon tape to wrap around the existing shower pipe to keep it from leaking?

If you are purchasing a wall-mounted track to adjust the height of the showerhead, consider a textured knob that is more easily grasped than a smooth knob.